QCMS Presents: Open Waltz Nights at with Live Band: Afton Crossing

YOU ARE INVITED to join us for the LAST 2026 Open Waltz Night on Tuesday, November 17th from 7-9pm. Afton Crossing provides the tunes with Jim Harrington on accordion and Rya Martin on piano.

The music is live, the vibes are warm, and all are welcome! Whether you’re a pro or just wanna try it out, Queen City Music Studios' Open Waltz Night is the spot to enjoy a fun, community music gathering with friendly faces.

ABOUT THE BAND:

Afton Crossing brings together Staunton accordionist Jim Harrington and Charlottesville pianist Rya Martin for an engaging blend of traditional folk and dance music. A largely self-taught accordionist, Jim has explored a wide range of musical styles, including Celtic, Cajun, Appalachian, and German folk music. He has performed throughout the Shenandoah Valley, along the East Coast, and in Ireland, and is Professor Emeritus of Mary Baldwin University. Rya brings classical piano training and years of experience in the Charlottesville traditional music and contra dance community, where she has performed for contra dances, waltzes, and English country dances. Together, they celebrate the lively rhythms and enduring traditions of folk music.

OPEN WALTZ NIGHT INFO:

• Doors open at 6:45pm
• No partner? No problem! - it is customary to rotate partners casually throughout the evening.
• Dress casual or dress up for informal, folk waltzing, and bring your dancing shows!
• Beginners to experienced dancers, couples, singles, and families are all welcome.
• All ages welcome for this family-friendly gathering; kids under age 12 get free admission!
• Open Waltz Night is a monthly Community Music Gathering on 3rd Tuesdays.

ADMISSION is $10-20, and tickets can be purchased online or at the door with PayPal, Venmo or cash. Proceeds go towards the musicians and our music school to help sustain our Community Music Gatherings and our mission of #makingusicmakers.

Our Community Music Gatherings are hosted by VOLUNTEER staff, family, and friends, so THANK YOU for considering a donation to Queen City Music Studios.
SPECIAL THANKS to Kate Harrington, Constance, & Jim Harrington for spearheading this community offering and for hosting our Open Waltz Nights. We are welcome musicians to participate as performers, as the music rotates each month. To get involved as a musician, contact Kate Harrington: [email protected].

ABOUT THE DANCE SPACE:
QCMS: Studio C is located on the 2nd floor of their building in historic Downtown Staunton, and is not ADA accessible. Please contact Molly Rose Murphy directly for ADA accommodations: [email protected]

MORE ABOUT QUEEN CITY MUSIC STUDIOS: School, Shop, Stage
Music Store, Community Music Gatherings, Workshops, Rehearsal Space, House Concerts & Music School offering lessons and group classes for all ages, styles, and levels of music.

Queen City Music Studios was founded by Molly Rose Murphy in 2015 and began as an alternative school of music for learning by ear. Over a decade later, they provide booking, event management & production services, employing over twenty professional musicians & instructors. The shop staff operate a full-service music store providing quality new & used instruments, accessories & repairs. Molly's Musikgarten is a licensed & certified Musikgarten program offering early development Family Music classes. Visit their website for more info: www.queencitymusicstudios.com

Come on down to Queen City Music Studios and let’s make some magic happen with this Community Music Gathering. Don’t miss out on the fun and that sweet sound of a live band!